Research into the potential benefits and effects of CBD has greatly increased over recent years. Although more research is still required in order to fully understand how it works, early studies indicate that CBD’s naturally occurring anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressant properties can be used to help boost the body’s immune system responses and functions.
The Immune System
The immune system is complex and much is still unknown about it. It’s made up of a network of specialized cells, tissues and organs which all work together to protect and defend our bodies against infections and diseases. When the immune system is functioning well, it’s able to prevent infections, as well as destroy viruses which may be harmful to our bodies.
In this battle, white blood cells are essential. There are two types of white blood cells – the phagocytes and the lymphocytes. Phagocytes ensure that harmful bacteria, viruses or infections are neutralized and prevented from spreading throughout our bodies and causing further damage. Lymphocytes (often referred to a T-cells and B-cells), help your body to remember what these harmful toxins were, thereby allowing your immune system to quickly mount a defense the next time it is attacked by these antigens.
Another important function of the immune system is to ensure that cells which aren’t functioning properly are detected and cell death is initiated in order to remove them. This process is particularly important as, if left unchecked, these defective cells could replicate and go on to form tumors.
What Is CBD?
CBD or cannabidiol is one of the components found in the Cannabis sativa plant. The main difference between CBD and other cannabinoids, such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), is that it doesn’t have a psychoactive effect. Therefore, it won’t lead to people becoming “high”.
CBD And The Endocannabinoid System (ECS)
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) was only identified in the early 1990s and researchers are still trying to understand its role more fully. What is known however, is that even if you don’t use cannabis, the ECS is still active within your body.
“Endocannabinoid receptors are found throughout your body. When the endocannabinoid molecules produced by your body bind to them, it triggers the ECS to take action. It is widely believed that the primary function of the ECS is to ensure that your body’s homeostasis, or balance, is maintained including as part of your immune system” explains Lois Jackson, a health writer at 1day2write.com and Writemyx.com.
CBD And The Immune System
There are a number of ways in which CBD may help to support the immune system. Firstly, CBD has been found to help regulate the body’s inflammatory responses due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is a crucial part of the body’s defenses as it prevents harmful toxins from spreading to other parts of the body.
“CBD has been found to function as an immunosuppressor. As such, it is able to slow down a patient’s immune response. These immunosuppressant properties mean that CBD can offer some support and relief to people who suffer from autoimmune diseases, such as multiple sclerosis, Crohn’s disease, lupus and HIV/Aids,” says James Brower, a marketer at Britstudent.com and Nextcoursework.com.
CBD can also promote cellular death, prevent rapid cell growth and suppress the production and function of T-cells. Whilst these aren’t effects that a healthy person might desire, for someone suffering from a hyperactive immune system, this can aid with the healing process.
CBD has also been found to help alleviate pain and discomfort in patients suffering from conditions such as migraines, cancer and rheumatoid arthritis. Due to its immunosuppressant properties, CBD is more likely to be beneficial as a form of relief or treatment for existing conditions, rather than as a form of preventative medicine.
Conclusion
Initial research into the relationship between CBD and the immune system appears promising, however, more research is required to fully understand its full effects upon the body. Currently, evidence suggests that it may help to reduce inflammation, offer some pain relief and help prevent or limit some autoimmune diseases due to its immunosuppressant qualities.
In order for the desired outcomes to be achieved and unwanted side-effects to be avoided, the correct dosages of CBD must be consumed. Any CBD consumption for supporting or maintaining the immune system should only ever be undertaken under the advice of a doctor.
Michael Dehoyos works as a professional editor and content marketer at PhDKingdom and Write My Coursework. He works closely with a range of companies, supporting them to develop and improve their marketing strategy concepts. Michael regularly writes articles for Assignment Help Service, as well as having contributed to numerous other websites and publications.
